Muscular
System
Muscles never sleep literally. We all know the heart's important role and the need for it to continually pump. Yet if you have ever taken a breath, you have benefited from the constant work of the diaphragm, which contracts to create an area of low pressure within your thoracic cavity, allowing air in. However, neither of these is the most active muscle in the body. Do you have any idea what it might be? The muscle that constantly is scanning back and forth and up and down--even while you sleep--is your eye!
We will explore a lot of interesting things this chapter. Have you ever wondered how weightlifters are able to support 717 lbs. without breaking anything more than a little sweat? And how are sprinters able to run 28 mph? We'll explore the processes behind these things, but your body is capable of many miraculous activities, and it can all be attributed to your muscles.
Here is one last set of fun facts. The largest skeletal muscle in your body is the gluteus maximus (that’s your butt), but it is not the strongest. The strongest muscle is actually the masseter in your jaw. In contrast, the smallest skeletal muscle is the stapedius (it stabilizes the smallest bone, the stapes, which is in your middle ear); however, it is also the weakest muscle.
Unit Notes
Click the button on the right to open a blank note outline for the Muscular System Unit.
To access a specific topic, click on the appropriate link below.
Note Topics:
Unit Booklet and Vocab
Lose your booklet? Click the button on the right to view the unit booklet with learning targets, notes, coloring pages, and review sheets.
Unit 5 Learning Targets:
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I can identify and describe the functions of the macroscopic and microscopic structures in a typical skeletal muscle.
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I can sequence the physiological steps that occur during a muscle contraction.
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I can identify, locate, and state the actions of the major muscles of each body region.
Online Activities
Our class incorporates several online HASPI activities. To view these in full color, visit the links below.
The HASPI Anatomy and Physiology resources were created through collaboration with industry members, higher education representatives, high school science teachers, and middle school science teachers. The resources include labs and activities that cover the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for high school earth, life, and physical science AND incorporate medical themes. The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Science and Technical Subjects have also been incorporated.
HASPI Lab Activities and Charts:
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Complete table using simulation: https://tinyurl.com/yxw7uwo8
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Visible Body Online Activity:
Video Resources
Do you need a little help in visualizing the structures and physiology of the muscular system? Use the links below to view clips that will help you better visualize and make connections between the concepts. You can always google other videos too!
Video Clips:
Need More Help...
If you ever get to a point that you are confused and stuck, please email me and I will help you figure it out.
Study Resources:
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Mix and Match Vocabulary Sorts (print and cut out to use at home)
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20 Cards Carousel Review (answers are at the end)
